Description
This Creamy Lemonade Summer Drink is a delightful and refreshing beverage perfect for hot days. Combining the tangy zing of fresh lemon juice with a smooth, velvety creaminess from heavy or coconut cream, it offers a luscious twist on classic lemonade. The addition of vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness and depth that rounds out the flavors, making it the ultimate summer refreshment. This easy-to-make recipe produces 8 servings of a cool, creamy, and revitalizing drink that’s sure to please guests and family alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Lemonade Syrup
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Drink Mixture
- 6 cups cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Lemon Juice and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar.
- Heat Gently: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat to slowly warm the mixture.
- Stir Constantly: Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until all the sugar is completely dissolved into the lemon juice.
- Simmer Briefly: Let the syrup simmer gently for 1 minute to enhance the flavor and ensure sugar is fully incorporated.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature; refrigerate to speed cooling if desired.
- Combine Syrup and Water: Pour the cooled lemon syrup into a large pitcher and add 6 cups of cold water.
- Stir Well: Mix the syrup and water thoroughly. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more water or simple syrup if necessary.
- Add the Cream: Gently pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream to the lemonade mixture.
- Incorporate the Vanilla: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pitcher for a subtle aromatic note.
- Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the mixture briskly until the cream is fully incorporated and the lemonade takes on a smooth, creamy consistency, ensuring not to over-whisk.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 2 to 3 hours, to let flavors meld and the drink to chill.
- Stir Before Serving: Before serving, stir the creamy lemonade well to recombine any settled ingredients.
- Prepare Glasses: Fill individual serving glasses with ice cubes to keep the drink cold and refreshing.
- Pour and Garnish: Pour the creamy lemonade over ice in each glass. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the drink right away for the best flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar or syrup.
- If the lemonade separates after sitting, stir well before serving.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice may affect the taste.
- The vanilla extract adds depth, but can be omitted if preferred.
- To make the syrup ahead, store it refrigerated up to 1 week.
- Adding sparkling water instead of still water can create a fizzy version.
